Thailand to rethink visa-free policy for Chinese citizens: Senate
The Senate has urged the Government of Thailand to reconsider its visa-free policy for Chinese citizens, expressing concerns that Thailand may become a centre for criminal activities.
Senator Wanchai Ekpornpichit raised these issues during a recent Senate meeting led by Speaker Mongkol Surasajja. Wanchai pointed out that the policy, initially designed to boost tourism, has been misused by criminal groups. He highlighted cases where Chinese syndicates have used Thailand as a base for illegal activities.
Wanchai proposed a comprehensive review of the visa-free policy, especially for tourists from China and other nations associated with transnational crime, to address immigration loopholes. He expressed concern that Thailand’s strategic location and current policies make it appealing for such activities, particularly as neighbouring countries like China, Myanmar, and Cambodia intensify their crackdown on organised crime.
The senator also mentioned that some shady individuals exploit natural border crossings to enter Thailand illegally, circumventing immigration checks. He suggested replacing the visa-free policy with visa-on-arrival requirements, which would require travellers to provide evidence of hotel bookings and travel itineraries.
Deputy Defence Minister Nattaphon Narkphanit acknowledged these concerns but clarified that visa-free travel is primarily an economic strategy. He assured the Senate that the government is taking steps to minimise risks, including enhancing border controls and working with neighbouring countries.
Nattaphon also alleged that some Thai government officials have colluded with criminals, complicating the situation. However, he stated that his ministry is collaborating with neighbouring countries to tackle the issue.
“As the Ministry of Defence is responsible for border security, it has engaged in discussions with neighbouring countries through available mechanisms. It has also tightened inspections of individuals crossing the borders, both through checkpoints and natural crossings.”
The deputy minister further recommended that the government engage in negotiations with third-party countries to address the problem effectively, reported Bangkok Post.
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